At least 11 people, including JUI-F leader Hafiz Hamdullah, were injured in a blast targeting the party’s convoy near Mastung, Pakistan. The incident occurred when Mr. Hamdullah reached the Killi Chotu area, located on the outskirts of Mastung, while on his way to address a public meeting.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the blast was remote-controlled, happening as Mr. Hamdullah’s vehicle reached the site. The explosive device is believed to have been planted in a motorcycle, as parts of a bike were found at the scene.
The injured, which included other party leaders, security guards, and a woman, were taken to the Nawab Ghous Bakhsh Raisani Memorial Hospital. Mr. Hamdullah is currently stable but under treatment, while the condition of three other injured individuals is critical.
No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the blast. However, this incident comes after the Counterterrorism Department (CTD) recently targeted the suspected commander of a banned outfit in Mastung.
Following the attack, JUI-F Secretary General Maulana Ghafoor Haideri and Awami National Party (ANP) leader Asghar Achakzai strongly condemned the incident and announced a shutter-down strike in Quetta on Friday.
The Prime Minister, governors, and various political leaders have also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the victims and emphasizing the nation’s united stance against terrorism.
This incident further highlights the ongoing challenges faced by political leaders and their supporters in Balochistan and emphasizes the urgency of conducting elections to stabilize the country.